[Interactions among the components of the diet].

A large number of dietary interactions are described in this article. Of these, only a relatively small number have been proved of relevance for human nutrition, under the conditions of real diets. These interactions most often occur at the intestinal lumen, but they may also take place during the utilization or storage of nutrients. Traditional diets of developing countries, which usually include unrefined cereals and other sources of fiber, may inhibit the bioavailability of mineral nutrients, contributing to specific deficiencies. Drug-nutrient interactions may also affect the nutritional status, particularly in population groups such as the elderly, who frequently receive prolonged medication and may have an inadequate food intake.